Panda Express has Taiwanese Popcorn Chicken now, but check the map before you head out with a very specific craving.
The limited regional test began September 8, with participating markets including Los Angeles, Chicago, Phoenix, Atlanta, Nashville, Orlando and Reno. This is not a nationwide menu launch.
Panda’s announcement describes dark-meat chicken with tamarind, tomato, garlic and onion seasoning, fried kale and Chili Crisp Aioli on the side. The dry seasoning and dipping sauce make this a different proposition from ordering something covered in a sweet glaze.
The chicken order and the bucket offer are different
The food can be selected as an entree for a Bowl, Plate or Family Meal without an additional entree charge, according to Panda. That does not make the meal free.
The Frankie Gaw collector bucket has its own requirements. Starting September 9, it comes with a large a la carte Taiwanese Popcorn Chicken purchase in-store at participating test locations, while supplies last. The offer excludes Family Meals and is limited to one redemption per order.
In other words: ordering the chicken as part of dinner and qualifying for the collectible are not interchangeable. If the bucket is the entire mission, sort out the order first.
Panda directs customers to its participating-store page. Check your location before traveling; a test-market announcement does not put the item in every restaurant.
The red-and-yellow pail is a collaboration with designer and food creator Frankie Gaw. The chicken may be dinner. The bucket apparently has plans beyond dinner.
